Amoxicillin

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic used to treat some bacterial infections. It is one of the most common antibiotics given to children.

It may be given for middle ear infection, strep throat, pneumonia, skin infections, infections caused by Helicobacter pylori, and urinary tract infections among others. It is taken by mouth, or less commonly by injection.

Common bad side effects are nausea and a rash. It can also make yeast infections more likely. When taken with clavulanic acid, it can cause diarrhea. It should not be used on someone allergic to penicillin.  It can be used for people with kidney problems, but less should be given than normal. It may be used on pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding. 

Amoxicillin was discovered in 1958 by Anthony Alfred Walter Long and John Herbert Charles Nayler. Its use started in 1972. It is on the (WHO) World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. Amoxicillin is cheap and commonly used. 

References

Category:Penicillins
Category:Phenols
Category:Primary amines